8 Genius Ways to Use Silica Gel Packets

You'll never want to throw out those little bags again.

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By
Marlisse Cepeda

If you thought those little bags that come inside new shoe boxes, jerky packets and more were nuisances, think again. The desiccants keep everything from electronics to clothes nice and fresh. Here's how.

1Save a Drowned iPhone

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It's common knowledge that cell phones and water don't mix, but life happens. So the next time you drop your cell in the toilet, the sink, or a pool, skip the rice trick and use silica gel. Remove the SIM card from the device and put it in a Ziplock bag filled with silica packets. Leave it there at least overnight, put the SIM card back in, and you're all set.

2Get Rid of Musty Smells

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Have an older book at home? You've probably noticed its musty odor. For a quick fix, put it in a bag of silica gel packs—the smell will disappear in no time! The packets will also save the books from molding.

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3Dry Out Hearing Aids

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The same trick that works to save cell phones works on hearing aids, too. Similarly, don't forget to remove the battery first.

4Protect Documents

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Put some in your safe or wherever you have important documents that need to be kept moisture-free. If you store documents or memorabilia in the basement, garage or similar storage areas, using silica gel is especially important, since those areas are prone to extra moisture.

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5Keep Rust at Bay

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Put a pack or two in your sewing needles so they don't develop rust. The same goes for other metal household items, like your tool box.

6Defog Your Windshield

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Driving with a foggy windshield can be dangerous. Leave some gel packets on your dashboard to keep it clear.

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7Keep Vacation Clothes Dry

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If you're on your way back from a vacation, chances are you took a few dips in a pool—and you're traveling with a damp swimsuit or wet towels in tow. Avoid a moldy, smelly situation by packing your bathing suit in a gel packet-filled Ziplock bag to wick away the moisture.

8Keep Vitamins Fresh

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If you store vitamins or medicine inyour bathroom's medicine cabinet, the humidity can affect the pills every time you open the bottle. Increased moisture could lead the coatings dissolving earlier than needed. To avoid this, put a packet in the bottle.